Books Accessible in the MCL: *Swoon: The Crimson Thread*

# **Books Available in the MCL: *Swoon: The Red Skein***

The Marikina City Library (MCL) features a wide array of books that appeal to various tastes and genres. Among these selections is *Swoon: The Red Skein*, an enthralling poetry anthology by the esteemed Filipino poet **Barbara Jane Reyes**. This work delves into themes of love, desire, power, colonialism, and feminist defiance, making it an important contribution to modern Filipino-American literature.

## **About the Author: Barbara Jane Reyes**

Barbara Jane Reyes is a prominent Filipina-American poet lauded for her writings that blend English, Tagalog, and Baybayin script to convey the nuances of her cultural identity and experiences. Born in Manila and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, her poetry is celebrated for its rich, evocative language and vigorous examination of topics related to the Filipino diaspora, feminism, and postcolonial challenges.

Some of her other noteworthy publications include:
– *Invocation to Daughters*
– *Diwata*
– *Poeta en San Francisco*

## **Overview of *Swoon: The Red Skein***

Released in **2021**, *Swoon: The Red Skein* is an impactful poetry compilation that intertwines stories of passion, yearning, and defiance. The term “swoon” evokes profound feelings of admiration, infatuation, and even yielding, while “red skein” serves as a metaphor for a thread of emotions, history, and identity that connects generations of women.

### **Themes Explored in the Book:**

1. **Love and Desire** – Reyes vividly portrays both the romantic and sensual aspects of love, illustrating deep emotions and physical ties.
2. **Feminist Resistance** – Her poems contest patriarchal values and celebrate the empowerment of women, particularly Filipina women, in asserting their independence.
3. **Colonial History and Identity** – The collection reflects on the enduring impacts of colonialism on Filipino identity and the intersections of language, history, and personal narratives.
4. **Mythology and Spirituality** – Reyes frequently draws on Philippine mythology, calling upon diwatas (spirits) and other elements from indigenous traditions.

## **Why Read *Swoon: The Red Skein*?**

This book is an essential read for poetry enthusiasts, academics studying Filipino literature, and individuals interested in feminist and postcolonial discourse. Reyes’ lyrical and fearless verses make *Swoon: The Red Skein* a captivating and thought-provoking experience, providing insights into the personal and collective struggles of women.

## **Availability in the Marikina City Library (MCL)**

Local residents and book lovers can access *Swoon: The Red Skein* at the **Marikina City Library**, which regularly enhances its collection with significant literary works, poetry, history, and more. Patrons may borrow or enjoy this book within the library and explore additional literary offerings by Barbara Jane Reyes and other Filipino writers.

## **Conclusion**

For those seeking a poetry collection that is both passionate and socially engaged, *Swoon: The Red Skein* is a valuable addition to your reading repertoire. Available at the MCL, this book offers a rich perspective on love, identity, and resistance, making it an enriching read for anyone who appreciates compelling and thought-provoking poetry.

Be sure to visit the Marikina City Library and immerse yourself in a literary journey that celebrates the intricacies of culture, identity, and womanhood.